To build a frame jig for bee hives, first break it down into its individual components and follow these instructions on how to cut those frame-jig components.
Lumber in a store is identified by its nominal size, which is its rough dimension before it's trimmed and sanded to its finished size at the lumber mill. The actual finished dimensions are always slightly different from the nominal dimensions. For example, what a lumberyard calls 1 inch x 5 inch lumber is in fact 3/4 inch x 4-1/2 inch.
The Material column in the following table lists nominal dimensions, and the Dimensions column lists the actual, final measurements.
| Quantity | Material | Dimensions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1" x 5" knotty pine | 4" x 1-3/8" x 1/2" | These are spacer cleats for the frame retaining panels. |
| 2 | 1" x 5" knotty pine | 16-7/8" x 4" x 3/4" | These are the retaining panels that hold the frames in place. |
| 2 | 1" x 5" knotty pine | 16-7/8" x 4" x 3/4" | These are the long sides. |
| 2 | 1" x 5" knotty pine | 15-3/8" x 4" x 3/4" | These are the short sides. |
![[Credit: Illustration by Felix Freudzon, Freudzon Design]](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6634a8f8dd9b2a63c9e6be83/669d65f2be209577ccee2412_357008.image0.jpeg)
Credit: Illustration by Felix Freudzon, Freudzon Design
